The Government is widening its migrant registration programme, allowing thousands of undocumented migrants to live and work legally in Trinidad and Tobago for a fixed period. The move expands the framework beyond Venezuelan nationals and is being framed as both a national security and equity measure.
00:00The government is expanding its migrant registration framework to include all eligible undocumented migrants, moving beyond its previous focus on Venezuelan nationals.
00:11Under Legal Notice No. 470, the Immigration Exemption from Work Permit Immigrants Order 2025, registered migrants will be allowed to live and work legally in Trinidad and Tobago from January 1st to September 30th, 2026.
00:26As part of that process, registrants will be issued official identification cards displaying their name, date of birth, photograph and the expiry date of their permit.
00:37The initiative will be overseen by the Ministry of Homeland Security, which says the expanded framework is intended to improve border security, strengthen data collection and bring undocumented migrants into the formal system.
00:50The Ministry adds the program will allow migrants who contribute positively to society to do so legally, while helping authorities identify and remove individuals who pose a risk to public safety.
01:04Registration is expected to begin in January 2026, with details on registration centers and requirements to be announced in the coming weeks.
01:12In a related move, Legal Notice No. 469 amends the immigration regulations to include the children of registered migrants, ensuring their status is recognized alongside their parents.
01:25However, the government is also a signal of firm stance on crime.
01:30Cabinet has recommended the deportation of undocumented migrants who commit criminal offenses or are deemed high risk.
01:37That process will involve coordination with the Ministry of Foreign and Karikam Affairs,
01:42as discussions continue with regional consulates and embassies on deportation logistics and possible cost-sharing arrangements.
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